January 05, 2024 – Microsoft has extended an invitation to members of the Windows Insider Program in the Canary and Dev channels to test out the latest iteration of the Microsoft Store, specifically version 22312.xxxx.x. This updated version places a strong emphasis on enhancing the Instant Arcade gaming functionality.
Introduced by Microsoft in September of the previous year, the Instant Arcade feature allows gamers to preview portions of games without having to download them first. In December, the tech giant went a step further by dedicating a section exclusively to Arcade. Now, with this latest update, Microsoft has bolstered the capabilities even further.
Here’s a rundown of the key improvements in this update:
Accessing Instant Arcade Games While Browsing or Searching
Months after announcing Instant Arcade, Microsoft has made it possible for users to launch these games directly from within the browsing or search results. Players can hover their mouse over an Instant Arcade game and click on the “Play Now” button to get started.
App Installation Notifications
Once a player initiates a download from the Microsoft Store, they will receive a notification once the application has been installed and is ready for use. This feature can be toggled on or off in the Store’s settings page.
Enhanced Search and Browsing Experience While Installing Games
When installing games or applications from the Microsoft Store, users can now enjoy an optimized search and browsing experience. The speed has been improved, and the animations have been made smoother and more seamless.
